CSO at Wheaton: Jaap van Zweden, Himari & Mozart Jupiter

Experience an evening of unparalleled musical brilliance as the world-renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) returns to the beautiful Edman Memorial Chapel at Wheaton College on Friday, February 13, 2026. This highly anticipated performance, part of the celebrated CSO at Wheaton series, features a masterfully curated program that bridges the gap between the majestic heights of the Classical era, the soul-stirring lyricism of the Romantic period, and the vibrant innovations of the 21st century.

Leading the orchestra is the distinguished conductor Jaap van Zweden, whose commanding presence and meticulous interpretations have made him a force in the global symphonic scene. Van Zweden, known for his transformative tenure with the New York Philharmonic and the Hong Kong Philharmonic, brings his characteristic precision and energy to a program that demands both technical perfection and deep emotional resonance.

The evening’s centerpiece is the highly anticipated subscription debut of the sensational young violinist Himari. A true prodigy whose performances have captivated audiences worldwide, Himari will perform Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 in G Minor. This staple of the violin repertoire is beloved for its lush melodies and virtuosic demands. Himari’s interpretation is expected to illuminate the work’s soaring themes and fiery cadenzas, showcasing why she is regarded as one of the most exciting talents of her generation. The Bruch concerto is a perfect vehicle for her expressive depth, moving from the brooding intensity of the opening ‘Vorspiel’ to the joyous, folk-inspired finale.

Opening the concert is a modern masterpiece by Joel Thompson titled ‘To See the Sky.’ Described by critics as possessing a ‘shifting palette of grooves, colors and moods,’ Thompson’s work offers a contemporary perspective that challenges and delights the ear. As a composer associated with the ‘Blacknificent 7,’ Thompson is at the forefront of a new wave of American symphonic music, and this performance provides a rare opportunity for Wheaton audiences to experience his evocative soundscapes performed by one of the ‘Big Five’ American orchestras.

The program concludes with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s monumental Symphony No. 41 in C Major, famously known as the ‘Jupiter’ Symphony. As Mozart’s final and longest symphony, the ‘Jupiter’ represents the absolute pinnacle of his orchestral achievement. From its bold opening fanfares to the revolutionary five-part counterpoint of the final movement, the symphony is a testament to Mozart’s genius. Under Van Zweden’s baton, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra will bring the work’s electrifying energy and architectural grandeur to life, filling Edman Chapel with the sounds of a composer at the height of his powers.

Attendees are invited to enhance their concert experience by attending a free pre-concert conversation hosted by the legendary Carl Grapentine. This insightful discussion will take place in the Armerding Concert Hall, located just steps away from the chapel, starting at 6:15 PM (75 minutes before the performance). Grapentine will delve into the history of the pieces, the background of the artists, and the nuances to listen for during the concert, making it an essential experience for both seasoned aficionados and those new to the symphonic world.

Edman Memorial Chapel, with its warm acoustics and intimate atmosphere, has hosted the Chicago Symphony Orchestra more than 25 times since their first collaboration in 1960. This partnership between the CSO and the Wheaton College Artist Series continues to bring world-class artistry to the western suburbs, offering a convenient and prestigious cultural destination for music lovers throughout DuPage County. Join us for a night of musical storytelling that promises to be both intimate and grand, celebrating the enduring legacy of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.